What to Consider When Having an Outside Event
You've found the perfect inspiration photo on Pinterest: a romantic, airy backdrop with flowing fabric, tall centerpieces, and delicate taper candles Now, here's the first question a professional decorator will ask: "Is your event indoors or outdoors?" Why?
Because our entire design, from the materials we choose to the way we build our structures, changes completely based on the answer. As Central Texas event decorators, we know our venues, and more importantly, we know our weather. An outdoor event is not just an indoor design moved outside. Here’s a look at 4 key challenges we are always thinking about.
1. The Decor Challenge: Structures & Backdrops
Indoor: We have a controlled environment. We have walls to brace against, ceilings to hang from, and perfectly level floors.
The Decorator's Role: We can design with fewer limitations. We can use lighter-weight materials for backdrops, hang installations from secure rigging points, and know that our structures are safe and stable.
Outdoor: We have an open field. There are no walls, no ceilings, and the ground is often uneven.
The Decorator's Role: Our role shifts from "decorator" to "engineer." Wind is our #1 enemy. That dreamy, flowing backdrop becomes a 10-foot-tall sail. Every single structure, from a ceremony arch to a welcome sign, must be designed to be completely freestanding and heavily weighted to be safe. We must account for physics, not just aesthetics.
2. The Decor Challenge: The Tablescape
Indoor: This is where we can be delicate. We can use light-as-air silk runners, tall & slender centerpieces, and paper menus placed gently on a charger.
The Decorator's Role: We can focus purely on the visual, knowing every item will stay exactly where we place it.
Outdoor: That silk runner will be in a tree, the tall vase will be on the ground, and the paper menu will be in the pool.
The Decorator's Role: Our design must be functional first. We have to think about weight and security. How do we design a centerpiece that is low and heavy, but still looks lush? How do we design a place card or menu that is integrated into the napkin fold so it can't fly away? We must select heavier linens or plan on how to secure them, all while making it look intentional and beautiful.
3. The Decor Challenge: Florals (The Living Decor)
Indoor: The A/C is running. We can use the most delicate, fragile flowers—like hydrangeas, sweet peas, or peonies—and know they will look perfectly fresh for the entire 8-hour event.
The Decorator's Role: We have complete creative freedom with our floral selection.
Outdoor: We don't have to tell you about Texas heat. That relentless, 100-degree sun is our biggest challenge.
The Decorator's Role: Our role becomes that of a horticultural expert. We know that in the middle of a July afternoon, delicate blooms don't stand a chance. They will wilt into a sad, droopy mess before the first guest even arrives. We must design with heat-resistant and hardy florals (like orchids, anthurium, or tropical greenery) that can withstand the heat and look flawless from the first photo to the last dance.
4. The Decor Challenge: The Atmosphere (Lighting & Candles)
Indoor: We have a head start. The venue already has chandeliers, sconces, and overhead lighting.
The Decorator's Role: Our job is to enhance the existing light. We add romantic uplighting, pin-spot the cake, and can (venue permitting) use hundreds of real taper candles to create a magical, flickering ambiance.
Outdoor: We are either competing with the harsh midday sun or fighting pitch-black darkness.
The Decorator's Role: We have to create 100% of the atmosphere from scratch. Real candles are impossible. They will melt into a puddle from the heat long before the wind even gets a chance to blow them out. We must source high-quality, realistic alternatives. More importantly, our lighting plan isn't just for "mood"—it's for function and safety. We must design and install lighting for pathways, bars, and tables, all from a power source we likely have to bring in ourselves.
So, Which is Right For You?
Neither is "better" than the other! An outdoor event provides a stunning natural canvas, while an indoor event offers ultimate creative control and comfort. The key is hiring a decorator who has the experience to anticipate these challenges—and has the design-savvy to solve them beautifully.
Ready to plan your perfect day, inside or out?
We've handled every Central Texas weather surprise, from 100-degree days to sudden spring windstorms. We are ready to create a flawless, "wow-worthy" design for your vision.
